Careers in Music

Graduates of the School of Music find employment in many music and music related fields, while some undergraduates continue their education in graduate school. Below are descriptions of career opportunities for the degree sequences offered by the School.

There are numerous possibilities when contemplating a career in music. The most obvious first thought is music performance.

Music Performance is a widely diverse topic. Music performance requires the development of a high degree of skill on an individual instrument or voice, or development of compositional skills. Career opportunities include, but is not limited to, the following: playing in a regional or major orchestra; performing in a military band or orchestra; performing as a jazz musician in a group or as a solo artist; singing in a regional or major opera house; performing musicals in major and regional venues; performing as a soloist; performing in smaller chamber music ensembles; composing music; and serving as a paid accompanist or church organist. Often those involved in the aforementioned activities also teach privately, imparting their skills to a new generation of performers or composers.

Music Education is also a very popular career choice and is one that often promises a greater certainty of employment. Certification requirements are specified by the state for those desiring to teach in public schools. Those in this field are involved working with school-age students in the following: directors of school bands and/or orchestras; directors of choirs; instructors of general music; instructors of music theory, music history, and/or music appreciation. A very appealing aspect of this profession is the opportunity to make a positive impact on young people through music. It is generally accepted that most all those accomplishing a great deal as music professionals were positively influenced at some point in their lives by a music educator.

Private Studio Teaching is also a very popular career choice. This can take many forms; however, the following are the most common: applied lesson instruction at the college or university level and applied instruction in a private studio . In order to be a university level instructor one must complete an advanced degree or artist diploma in music and be employed by an institution of higher education. However, anyone with appropriate preparation can open a private studio, often teaching out of one's home. University level applied instructors are also involved in music performance.

Music Therapy is another exciting music career possibility in which music is used to assist clients with physical and emotional challenges. Completion of certification requirements is necessary for employment. This relatively new discipline provides those selecting the profession the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of their clients. Those engaged in this profession often work in hospitals, convalescent homes, schools, and social agencies. It is also possible to provide these services as private contractors.

Music Business is a widely diverse yet exciting career objective. A career in music business might involve, but is not limited to, the following: managing a music store; managing and teaching a private studio; developing and marketing music merchandise; managing artists; managing a box office; and managing an auditorium. Careers in music businesses of today most often utilize music technology. Those involved in music business as a career are often entrepreneurial in spirit and are excited by open-ended challenges.

Opportunities out side of music abound . Preparation in music often has proven an excellent antecedent to professional careers in law, banking, psychology and management. Music is a demanding activity; therefore, those having undergone extensive musical training are often highly disciplined individuals. This trait is often transferable to other careers also requiring such rigor.